HOUSE BILL REPORT
HJM 4030


This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Reported by House Committee On:
Transportation

Brief Description: Requesting the 172nd Street overpass of Interstate 5 in Arlington to be named the "Oliver "Punks" Smith Interchange."

Sponsors: Representatives Pearson, Clibborn, Morrell, Kristiansen, Smith and Dunn.

Brief History:

Transportation: 2/4/08, 2/6/08 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requests that the Washington State Transportation Commission name the 172nd Street overpass of Interstate 5 in Arlington the "Oliver 'Punks' Smith Interchange."


HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 26 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Flannigan, Vice Chair; Ericksen, Ranking Minority Member; Schindler, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Appleton, Armstrong, Campbell, Dickerson, Eddy, Herrera, Hudgins, Jarrett, Kristiansen, Loomis, Rodne, Rolfes, Sells, Simpson, Smith, Springer, Takko, Upthegrove, Wallace, Warnick, Williams and Wood.

Staff: Christie Parker (786-7322).

Background:

Under current law, the Washington State Transportation Commission (Transportation Commission) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities. An entity or person requesting the naming or renaming must provide sufficient evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal.

The Transportation Commission must consult with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) before taking final action to name or rename a state transportation facility. After the Transportation Commission takes action to name or rename the facility, the WSDOT designs and installs the appropriate signs.


Summary of Bill:

The memorial asks that the 172nd street overpass of Interstate 5 in Arlington be named the "Oliver 'Punks' Smith Interchange." Copies of the memorial are to be forwarded to the Secretary of Transportation, the Transportation Commission, and the WSDOT.


Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This legislation is a repeat from 2007; a memorial for "Punks" Smith passed the House last year but did not pass the Senate. The local community wants to honor this individual by naming the interchange in his honor. Letters of support have been submitted by members of the public.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Representative Pearson, prime sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.